Elevate Your Dinner Game with Bacon Mushroom Chicken
If you’re looking for a mouthwatering and easy-to-make dinner recipe that’s sure to impress, look no further than our Bacon Mushroom Chicken dish! This savory and indulgent meal combines tender chicken breasts with crispy bacon and earthy mushrooms, all bathed in a rich and creamy sauce. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a gourmet dinner that will leave your family and guests begging for more. So, let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this delicious Bacon Mushroom Chicken!
Ingredients:
Meat:
- 2 thick slices Bacon
- 2 Chicken breast halves, bone-in
Produce:
- 1 clove Garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Mushrooms, sliced
Baking & Spices:
- 1 tsp Seasoning salt
Dairy:
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1/4 cup Heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Crumble the bacon into small pieces once cooled.
2. Brown the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with seasoning salt on both sides. In the same skillet used to cook the bacon, add the chicken breasts, skin side down. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic and Mushrooms:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and golden brown.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and add the butter to the skillet, allowing it to melt and coat the mushrooms and garlic. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until everything is well combined and heated through.
5. Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy mushroom sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
- Once the chicken is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the dish with the crumbled bacon pieces and freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve the Bacon Mushroom Chicken hot, alongside your favorite sides.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Boneless Chicken: If you prefer boneless chicken breasts, feel free to use them instead of bone-in halves. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless chicken breasts will cook faster.
- Cheese Addition: For an extra indulgent twist, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken and sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and chicken, and use vegetable broth or white wine to deglaze the skillet before adding the mushrooms and garlic. Proceed with the recipe as instructed, creating a creamy mushroom sauce that’s perfect for tossing with pasta or serving over roasted vegetables.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how to make a keto-friendly version of Bacon Mushroom Chicken:
- Substitute Heavy Cream: Replace the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream to reduce the carb content of the sauce while still maintaining its creamy texture.
- Butter Swap: Use ghee or olive oil instead of butter to cook the chicken and sauté the mushrooms. This will add richness to the dish without any additional carbs.
- Serve with Low-Carb Sides: Pair the Bacon Mushroom Chicken with low-carb sides such as cauliflower rice, sautéed spinach, or a crisp green salad for a satisfying and keto-friendly meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe? A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used instead of bone-in halves. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless chicken breasts will cook faster.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components of this dish ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. Cook the bacon, brown the chicken, and sauté the mushrooms and garlic in advance, then reheat and combine everything when you’re ready to eat.
Q: What can I serve with Bacon Mushroom Chicken? A: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
In conclusion, Bacon Mushroom Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from busy weeknight dinners to special gatherings with family and friends. With its crispy bacon, tender chicken, and creamy mushroom sauce, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, with our keto and low-carb variations, everyone can enjoy this delicious meal while staying true to their dietary goals. So, give this recipe a try and prepare to delight your taste buds with every bite of Bacon Mushroom Chicken!